Lab test
Nut Allergy Test Panel – Allergic To Nuts?
Below is a plain-language overview of the nut allergy test panel – allergic to nuts?. This blood test checks for allergic antibodies to seven common nuts and seeds. It can help explain symptoms that appear after eating these foods.
Lab requirements in Nut Allergy Test Panel – Allergic To Nuts?
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Nut Allergy Test Panel – Allergic To Nuts?. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Some tests require fasting or avoiding certain foods or drinks beforehand. You will be informed when you order — confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Preparation
- Preparation is usually not required, but you should follow the specific instructions provided by the collection lab. Tell the lab about any medications you take, as some may affect test…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
The Nut Allergy Test Panel measures specific IgE antibodies in your blood. These antibodies can be produced when the immune system reacts to almond, cashew, coconut, hazelnut, pecan, peanut, or sesame. The panel gives a separate result for each allergen.
What it measures
- Almond IgE — reflects immune sensitivity to almond proteins
- Cashew IgE — reflects immune sensitivity to cashew proteins
- Coconut IgE — reflects immune sensitivity to coconut proteins
- Hazelnut IgE — reflects immune sensitivity to hazelnut proteins
- Pecan IgE — reflects immune sensitivity to pecan proteins
- Peanut IgE — reflects immune sensitivity to peanut proteins
- Sesame Seed IgE — reflects immune sensitivity to sesame seed proteins
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a small blood sample from a vein in your arm, usually at a lab or clinic. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this panel when someone reports symptoms such as hives, stomach upset, or breathing trouble after eating nuts or seeds. It can also be used to help evaluate a known or suspected food allergy.
Preparation
Preparation is usually not required, but you should follow the specific instructions provided by the collection lab. Tell the lab about any medications you take, as some may affect test results.
How results are reported
Results are reported as a separate level for each allergen, often along with a reference range. Reference ranges can vary between laboratories, so your results should be interpreted in the context of the lab that performed the test.
Before you go
- Whether any medications you take could affect the test
- How and when you will receive your results
- Whether your insurance covers this panel
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean I am definitely allergic?
Not necessarily. A positive result shows that your immune system has made IgE antibodies to a particular nut or seed, but it does not always mean you will have an allergic reaction. Your clinician will consider your symptoms and medical history along with the test results.
Can this test tell me how severe my allergy is?
No. The level of IgE does not reliably predict how severe a reaction might be. Some people with low levels have serious reactions, and some with higher levels have mild or no symptoms.
Do I need to avoid eating nuts before the test?
Usually no special preparation is needed. However, you should follow any instructions given by the lab or your clinician. If you have had a severe reaction to a food, do not eat it just for testing without medical supervision.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few business days after the sample reaches the laboratory. The exact turnaround time can vary by lab and location.
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